Merry Christmas From Our Family to Yours!

Composing the family Christmas card is one of my favorite things to do this time of year, but I get so busy sometimes that it gets moved down the list, until it becomes a last minute rush to get it done. This time we just kept it simple & took a few snap shots of the family on our newly purchased property. The goal was to get a good family photo, but I forgot the tripod clip, so we didn't get one of all four of us. Still, this photo card layout I found on Shutterfly makes for a beautiful family Christmas greeting. I love the effect & I'm able to share it with all my friends and family online, just in case it doesn't make it to your mailbox in time.

Merry Christmas!

Stationery card

View the entire collection of cards.

A Letter to My Younger Self: Interesting Idea

I recently read a magazine article encouraging women, write a letter to your younger self. It would work well for men too. Two questions: 1) Have you ever wished you knew then what you know now? and  2) What would you tell your younger self?

The challenge, write the letter to you, as you were twenty years ago. Oh, wow, where do I start?

I recently attended my 20th high school reunion, and realized the view I had of myself then was far from reality. I had more friends than I thought, I was cuter than I thought (aside from the 80's hair), I was smarter than I allowed myself to believe, and people had fonder memories of me than I have of myself.

So here's a portion of what I might say to that girl, just getting her feet wet in college, on the verge of entering the great big, real world that she couldn't wait to see.

Rest, Relaxation & Romance in the Great Smoky Mountains

I opened my eyes to take in the most incredible view, after a heavenly night of sleep in a bed that felt more like clouds massaging my tired, stress filled body. Still in a sleepy haze, I caught a glimpse of sunlight twinkling in the water.

I bounded from bed, and with one quick swoop of curtains, revealed an enchanted forest carved by a bubbling mountain stream.

It looked like a magazine picture through the floor to ceiling windows, beckoning me to "rise and shine," with a soft whisper.  

For a moment the lyrics of an 80's song popped into my head, "I was kissing Valentino by a crystal, blue Italian stream."

But, unlike the Bangles' song, this wasn't just another "Maniac Monday," and I wasn't dreaming. My husband opened his eyes, as he heard me marvel, "Wow, what a view!"

Our Guest House, #308

We were waking up at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains, in a beautiful guest house at Butterfly Gap Retreat.

We had found the 3 R's, rest, romance, and relaxation, right in our own backyard in Maryville, Tennessee. I couldn't wait to start the day and explore the beautiful property, which you could see from nearly every angle of our weekend home.

The view was such a fantastic surprise because we arrived to Butterfly Gap around sundown the night before. Storms delayed our weekend getaway by a couple of hours, and a tornado threatened to ruin it all together.

The drive to the couples' retreat was an adventure in itself, and I couldn't help but think what visitors from other states must think while driving up these curvy mountain roads, dotted with farm animals, rolling hills, and the occasional vehicle yard art.

From the time we reached the twinkling lights adorning the gate of Butterfly Gap Retreat, I felt welcomed, and relaxed. Once the gate closed behind us, it was as if we'd entered our own little private, paradise.

If you're thinking rustic mountain cabin, think again. The 6 modern guest homes are like art, the perfect juxtaposition against the backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains.

The expansive property showcases nature at its best, boasting a private lake, acres of forest for exploring, and breath taking views. It's a popular spot for one-of-a kind weddings, and it's easy to see why.

What a beautiful place to take a walk!

The rare hideaway is family owned and operated. The service you'll receive will have you feeling as if you're part of the family. We were greeted by property owner, Becky. Her smile and enthusiasm is contagious.

Mandy & Becky delivering breakfast.

Becky's daughters, Mandy and Laura, help her run the retreat, and they think of everything to make your stay memorable, and relaxing. Each morning they deliver a homemade, mouthwatering breakfast right to your door.

I'm still dreaming about the french toast, with cheesecake yogurt, and strawberries we had on our last morning there.

Best of all, privacy is yours! For a couple with 2-young children, and demanding, stressful, all consuming jobs, it was just what my husband and I needed.

After a very stormy, but romantic first night, we spent time hiking through the woods, watching the sunset from the overlook, and just relaxing and enjoying each other's company, unplugged from the rest of the world.

Don't take my word for it, I'm a local. But, apparently travelers from all over agree with me. Our little retreat has been featured in a little magazine, you may have heard of, Southern Living, and it's in the book, 1,000 Places To See Before You Die:  A Traveler's Life List.

Sunset was awesome!

Sunset from overlook

A beautiful change of scenery is just what we needed to recharge and prepare for another manic Monday. Those hectic days in the office will have me day dreaming about my next escape to Butterfly Gap Retreat.

Act Your Age? How Dare They!



WHAT?

When I received this in the mail, I thought there must be some mistake. I flipped it over and the woman on the back looked even more mature than the one on the front.

I checked and double-checked, that was MY name on the envelope. Whoever is in charge of researching this magazine's target audience was way off!

I am still in my thirties, and peeved that they think I would be interested in their magazine, which boasts "more thoughtful", "interesting" articles that reflect the "things that matter."

The kind of articles that a woman of "my age" would apparently appreciate and enjoy more than the smut offered in Cosmopolitan, the "out of your reach" couture clothing in Vogue, or the 6-pack abs and buns of steel exercises "you'll only look at, but never do" in Fitness magazine. That wasn't the sales pitch, just my two cents worth.

My husband got a great laugh at my expense as I whined I am not yet a mature woman. I didn't mean I was immature, just not ready to rush into my forties and fifties. Then we both laughed as I skimmed the packet which previewed this magazine that promises MORE, and I found myself saying, "I might like this."

Still, I think I'll relish the last couple of years I have in my thirties. I'll choose to occasionally flip through those twenty-something magazines when I'm visiting the salon, pretending it doesn't irritate me that they make it seem my life will end without the latest designer handbag or perfect lipstick shade.

I'll grow old gracefully, when I'm good and ready, dammit! Until then, I'll blame Oprah for this marketing mistake, and those long, thoughtful, feel good articles in O magazine that I occasionally like to read. I'm sure her people are to blame.

New Year, New Focus

I can't believe how fast 2011 moved from the horizon to my rear view mirror. I have felt at times like I was running wind sprints with a microphone and notepad in one arm, a baby in the other, not sure if any of us would make it to the finish line in one piece.

I pray mostly for balance in 2012, more family time, and to discover the real me... what makes me feel alive.

I don't believe in new year's resolutions. So I didn't make any. I believe in realizing you can't change the past and you should focus on the future. Having said that, there is nothing wrong with reflection, especially if it helps you focus on a better future.

Just some of the things I discovered about myself in 2011:

• I am not Superwoman. OK, this one I discover every year, but there is something in my DNA that won't allow me to stop striving to do it all. When will I learn? Maybe in 2012? Maybe not.
• I crave creativity. I get really excited when I take on a new craft project, discover a DIY project in a magazine or online and see it through to completion, or just help my son think of a creative way to do a school project. I work best, for some unknown reason, under pressure or under doubt (someone else's).
• I love photography. I want to pursue it definitely as a hobby, maybe more. I've always loved to take pictures, but I wanted to learn how to take pictures that evoke a feeling in others. I took my first photography class a couple months ago and I'm hooked. I will be signing up for my 2nd in a couple days. I'll keep you posted.
• My career no longer defines me. I have never felt like a job should be who you are, but I've always put my all into whatever I do, until it ends up consuming me. I think a strong work ethic is a virtue, but I have finally learned that I can't give all of me to it...or I'll have nothing left for the people and things that really matter. I'm a mom and wife first and foremost. I hope 2012 will find me working harder to reflect how much my husband and children mean to me.
• I am strong, determined, loyal, and have a big heart that longs to make a difference.
• I can not change other people. I can only be responsible for the life I lead. I must practice patience more often, and bite my tongue...even when it really hurts.

Here are just a few of the things I hope to improve on in 2012:

• Growing closer to God, his word, and what he wants for my life.
• Showing my kids some of the wonderful things that life has to offer, right outside our door.
• Making time for friends, exercise, and relaxation.
• More fun, less work. (although I enjoy working, I need to loosen up sometimes).

I wish you all a blessed and prosperous New Year. May 2012 be the best yet!

My Public, Non-Politically Correct Display

I have never before done this in public, in front of strangers, without knowing how they'd react. I didn't even realize the words were about to come out of my mouth when I began to speak and share something that has divided people for centuries.

Now that I've got your attention, let me set the scene. I found myself at a fancy catered event. The organizers invited me to serve as a guest judge at this educational leadership event (one of the perks of being an education reporter, I guess).

I had only met the strangers seated at my table 20 minutes earlier, and I did not bring a guest with me. Those strangers by the way were an eclectic group, among them a retired teacher, a public relations coordinator, a marketing specialist, and a state lawmaker.

Stranger Danger Too Close to Home

I have had the stranger danger talk with my 8 year old son so much that he now recites in the most sarcastic tone he can muster, "I know mom, don't talk to strangers. Don't get close to their car, and never, ever go anywhere with them, EVEN if they offer candy, a puppy or a million dollars."

Perhaps the over protective mom in me has over done it? Could I have, by repeating myself so often, done exactly the opposite of what I intended. I want him to be so scared of being kidnapped, that he wouldn't dare venture too far from my side in a store, and is armed with enough tips that he can avoid being snatched.

Would You, Could You, Come & Play?...

Birthday boy approves

Would you, could you come and play? Would you, could you on my birthday?

 Dr. Seuss was the theme for my youngest son's 2nd birthday party.

It's hard to believe the year has flown by and I need to put together a party before he turns the big 3 in just a couple weeks.

I love to do creative parties for my 2 boys, but juggling work, school and daycare schedules, soccer, guitar practice, and everything else a busy working mom has to do in a week makes it tough. This year we've decided on a local pumpkin patch.

While I get my creative juices flowing for this one, enjoy some of the pictures from last year's party.  "Oh the thinks you can think, if only you try..."

 

Homemade tissue pom poms

I made the cake, decorations, bought blue wigs, and wrote Thing 1 & Thing 2 on red t-shirts to fit the theme. We had Thing 1 & Thing 2 races and a photo op for souvenirs.

Thing 1 & Thing 2 Photo Op

Everyone had a ball! I got the most ideas, and a couple party supplies, (like the treat boxes) from the Seussland web site.   



Homemade Cat in the Hat cake



This year I'm thinking of dressing the birthday boy in overalls with a white t-shirt, which I will use a rubber stamp to cover with orange pumpkins. I am also getting some great ideas for games, food and adorable party favors from sites like MarthaStewart.com. Wish me luck. I'll post pictures after the pumpkin patch party.













The Story I Dreaded Covering Blessed Me Beyond Measure

It was the story I dreaded covering, and was thrilled to hear someone else got the assignment. A 10-year-old boy had been rushed to the hospital after being mauled by a pit bull mix and another dog. The attack was so severe, the pit bull ripped both of the boy's ears off.

It happened a month ago, and the reporter who covered the story came back talking about how sad it was. I did not listen as she told co-workers about the boy named Brandon. As a mother of two boys I couldn't imagine the horror Brandon's parents must have been feeling.

I didn't want to know anything about his injuries or the attack for fear I would burst into tears and feel horrible. Now I think, what a selfish response. This week, whether I wanted to or not, I met Brandon and his parents.

I hadn't changed my opinion about this tragedy, and sighed when I learned I'd have to do a followup on Brandon's recovery and talk with him and his parents about the day he was mauled by dogs.

What a story of survival, and I am so blessed to have met this little boy. Brandon is 11 now and an incredible inspiration. He has the most positive outlook on life and is so thankful to be alive.

His dad, Tony, told me it has changed his perspective on life and how he lives it. "I take everything and everyday as something special now. I am not taking a moment with him or anyone I love for granted," he said.

Brandon's mother, Christy, said she feels some pangs of guilt because she told Brandon to take a package next door to the neighbor's. It was the neighbor's dogs who attacked him as he was headed back home. "I just wish I had taken it myself," she said, to which Brandon looked at her shaking his head and said, "No mom. It's OK."

I am near tears writing this, but I couldn't cry as I looked at Brandon that day. He smiled at me nearly the entire time I spoke with him and his family. Even when he spoke in detail about the attack, his tireless visits with doctors, even the pain he feels daily, he didn't seem sad.

His dad told me the entire family is closer than ever before. Brandon has a brother and sister. He's the middle child. I have shared his story with my husband and son, because we all need to remember what's important in life.

It's tough to complain about your problems when you meet this happy, well adjusted boy who has been through so much. He just learned surgeons may be able to re-construct his ears, which is very important to him.

Please take the time to watch his story while the video is still on the web site.

His dad told me that God saved Brandon. In the middle of the horrific scene, Brandon's dad said, "I was beating the pit, but she wouldn't turn him loose. The other dog started attacking me from behind, and I asked God to help me. God helped me. The 2nd dog backed off of me, and my dad's Lab ran up and started biting the pit bull on the butt until she let go of Brandon. The pit turned to attack me, and I put my arm in her mouth."

This dad was able to hold that dog until police arrived, even screaming for his wife to bring electrical tape which he used to tape the dog's mouth shut. He also laid her on her side and taped her legs while paramedics worked to save his son's life.

We don't understand why tragedy strikes our lives or others around us, but I know God is always there, and we just need to ask him for help. I am thankful I was able to cover the story I dreaded.

He's Teaching Me Patience

Raising two boys I knew I would eventually have to move from toy trucks to teen tantrums, but I still had a few years not to think or worry about it. So I thought.

My oldest son is only 8, and we're still battling the terrible twos with the little guy. Those of you who know me well already know that my world seriously changed about three months ago. That's when my teenage cousin moved in with us.

We grew to a party of five overnight and my husband and I have struggled to teach discipline to a child someone else has molded. A man-child that is. I failed to mention he is 18-years-old, but suffered a brain injury just over a year ago.

Farm Fresh School Lunches?

I remember mystery meat, square pizza, french fries, and baked bologna topped with mashed potatoes and cheese in the school lunch line. I was invited into a school lunch room this week to see the total transformation of school lunches that's beginning to slowly inch it's way across the country.

I was surprised by the healthy makeover, and maybe a little shocked to see high school students actually eating it without complaining. First of all, I didn't detect that old familiar lunchroom smell (you know what I'm talking about) when I entered the cafeteria. The fresh apples, pears and strawberries were first to catch my eye.

Americana Fading in the Rear View Mirror

I just returned from a fantastic, simple family vacation and planned to write all about it as soon as I got back home. Little did I know that I would be moved to write about the back roads trip it took to get there.

My family of five, hubby, two sons under the age of 9, plus my 18 year old cousin who recently moved in needed a cheap, family friendly, close to home vacation. We decided to visit a state park with on site cabins to rent.

Lake Cumberland State Resort Park in Jamestown, Kentucky fit the bill. It was fabulous, but along the route I was transported back in time. Most of the driving was on a state route that has become famous in the last couple decades.

Just finished this awesome book, Tomorrow River by Lesley Kagen. A real page turner that made me feel like I was in the story watching the characters up close.

A Monster Has Moved in

He pops in and out without warning, but no one can miss his arrival. Growling, teeth bared, brow furrowed, eyes slit with burning focus, his wrath is unpredictable.

Anyone in his path beware. Anything within his reach can become a painful weapon flung in your direction when he is angry. His tiny stature is misleading. His head only reaches my waist, but he can make the whole house tremble when he stomps his little foot and lets out that high pitched sound that rings in your ears.

Bridge Battle

This story touched me in so many ways. It gave me the opportunity to use my profession to put a spotlight on a need in the community, and I learned there are still so many good people willing to help others. I was blessed to meet Joe, a 79 year old Army vet, riddled with health problems, with an unwavering faith in God, and a big heart.

Recent News Views

It's been a busy month, but here is a brief synopsis of some of the stories, in no particular order, I have been working on and the things that stood out for one reason or another:

1. Head Start= No Jail time: Local DA reads to kids in a Head Start program to show support for maintaining federal and state funds for Pre-K programs. He says these programs can be key in helping kids learn to read, which in turn can keep them out of jail. Who knew?

Relaxation Station

Want to feel the stress of the world lift away from your body one muscle at a time...  lay in a hammock. I had forgotten how relaxing this little invention is. My husband and I both have stressful jobs, and busy lives, so when I was trying to think of the perfect Father's Day gift this year, I wanted to do something different. For the man that has everything, the gift of stress relief. To my surprise, I have enjoyed it as much as him, maybe even more. Just tonight, our 2-year-old was fussy and I asked if he wanted to go outside and get in the hammock. We relaxed there looking up at the dusky sky, and birds flying in a perfect V formation. It was a sweet mommy-son bonding moment and immediately seemed to relax us both. I think it's the best Father's Day present I've ever purchased myself... I mean my wonderful husband.

Family Ties That Bind - DivineCaroline

Family Ties That Bind - DivineCaroline

This one is about my journey into genealogy research. It was fun and fascinating. I can't wait to learn more.

Deadly Tornadoes Twist News Judgement - DivineCaroline

Deadly Tornadoes Twist News Judgement - DivineCaroline

This is an article I wrote for the online magazine Divine Caroline. It is a wonderful place for aspiring writers to get their feet wet, or established writers to share their work. It's mostly a women's magazine, but they do have a few articles submitted by men too. Check it out.

The Journey Begins

Some days it may be a calm walk down a flower lined trail, where we take time to stop and admire the beauty of our surroundings, reflecting on the gifts life is serving up. More often it will be a rugged hike through the mountains, stopping to catch our breath or doctor the cuts and bruises we get along the way. Sometimes it will be an exhilarating roller coaster ride that both excites and scares us half to death. Whatever the journey, thanks for being my travel companion, and don't just sit there or quietly follow. Let me know how you feel, what you like and what you don't about this, my first step into the Blogosphere. Let the fun begin.